Did a reporter tape Kevin Durant discussing Jimmy Butler’s ‘ego’?

As it is The Golden State Warriors are preparing to open the 2025-26 NBA season on Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Lakers, a recent San Francisco Chronicle column sparked debate after it appeared to reference the former Warriors star and current Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant compared to Jimmy Butler III.

In her latest op-ed, veteran columnist Ann Killion praised Butler’s self-awareness and team mentality as he enters his first full season with Golden State. However, her wording seemed to indirectly contrast Butler’s mindset with that of previous Warriors players — especially those who, she described, “should be seen as a man.”

Killion wrote,

“Butler has that kind of talent. But unlike some past Warriors who had to be seen as ‘the man,’ he doesn’t operate in that space. ‘I don’t have an ego. I’m not the No. 1 option, I’m great at that — I know my role,'” Butler said. Steve -? what do you need me to do? It’s part of being a vet. That’s part of winning. But more importantly, it’s part of knowing that your ego doesn’t get you anywhere. Ego is the enemy.’”

Anne Killion’s remarks are drawing attention for seemingly referencing Rockets star Kevin Durant

The excerpt garnered attention online, as many fans interpreted the “past warriors” remark as a subtle reference to Durant, who now plays for the Rockets after being traded in the offseason from the Phoenix Suns. Durant spent three seasons with Golden State from 2016 to 2019, helping lead the franchise to two NBA championships and winning Finals MVP honors both years.

Despite his success, Durant’s time in the Bay Area has often been dogged by speculation about his chemistry with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Reports of struggles during the 2018-19 campaign followed him until his eventual departure to the Brooklyn Nets and later stints with Phoenix and Houston.

Killion’s remarks come as Butler becomes the latest All-Star to join Golden State’s core Curry and Green. Since who arrived from the Miami Heat in an exchange in February 2025Butler has embraced a role focused on defense, leadership and versatility rather than asserting himself as a primary scoring option.

Jimmy Butler’s team-first approach ushers in a new era for the Warriors

In 30 games with the Warriors last season, Butler averaged 17.9 points, 5.9 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 47.6% from the field. His impact helped the team close the regular season on a 23-7 run, securing a 48-34 record and the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference.

As Golden State enters the new season, Butler’s unselfish mentality has drawn praise from both teammates and head coach Steve Kerr. The Warriors’ veteran core believes his approach could extend the franchise’s championship run and restore its trademark chemistry.

It remains unclear whether Killion’s line was a deliberate shot at Durant, but her column highlights how the shadow of the team’s past success still lingers. With Durant now leading a loaded Rockets team in Houston and Butler settling into his role in Golden State, both stars are poised to define new eras for their respective teams when the 2025-26 NBA season begins.